What is SSI?

Shoe Stability Index (SSI) is an indicator of shoe stability, as an index. SSI is derived through mathematically combining the quantified measurements of midfoot stability (TCI) and hindfoot stability (VCI), indicating the shoe’s overall ability to control the motion of the foot.

What is TCI?

Torsion Control Index (TCI) is a measurement of midfoot shoe stability, in inch-pound units (in.-lbs.). TCI is measured through actively twisting a shoe around the longitudinal axis of the shoe, from the heel to the area of the toes joints, simulating rotational forces of the foot, and measuring the shoe’s resistance to this motion.

The higher the TCI, the firmer the midfoot and more torsional stability. The lower the TCI, the softer the midfoot and less torsional stability.

What is VCI?

Vertical Compression Index (VCI) is a measurement of hindfoot shoe stability, in millimeters (mm). VCI is measured through compression of the heel portion of the shoe under a fixed amount of pressure, thereby measuring how the structure of the shoe controls rearfoot motion.

The higher the VCI, the softer the midsole and less hindfoot stability. The lower the VCI, the firmer the midsole and more hindfoot stability.

What is Loaded Heel to Toe Drop?

Loaded Heel to Toe Drop is the measurement in millimeters of the height of the heel relative to the fore foot when compressed to a fixed poundage. This can be defined as vertical support.

What is RI?

Rebound Index (RI) is an indicator of energy return of shoe to the foot, in millimeters (mm). RI is measured through compression of the heel portion of the shoe under a fixed amount of pressure, and then determining how much force the shoe exerts on the foot.

Medial Shin Splints

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Complaints

  • Pain and tenderness along lower, medial shin above the ankle
  • Pain may increase with running and walking activities

Possible Causes

  • Tight calf muscles
  • Excessive pronation
  • Soft, unstable shoes
  • Weakness in medial shin musculature

Shoe Profile

The shoe midsole should provide maximum torsional and hindfoot stability to control medial foot rotation (pronation / arch drop). This reduces the tractional (pulling) forces that aggravate the medial (inside) shin muscles. A midsole with a high to medium heel-to-toe ratio may add further benefits.

Orthotics

Neutral (mild pronators) – 3 mm heel lift with or without over-the-counter arch supports
Moderate to excessive pronators – Custom orthotics may be beneficial

Shoe Recommendations

The following shoes meet these criteria. Please click on the appropriate link to see the shoes and their test data.

personal_male_2 personal_female_2

Recommended Accessories

SuperFeet arch supports

Provides extra foot support that will help reduce torsional forces on the medial side of the shin.

Heel lifts

Raising the heel slightly reduces the stress on the medial side of the shin. Needs to be worn on both feet.

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Reduces pain and fatigue and is said to increase blood flow.

ProStretch for calf muscles

Flexibility in the calf complex is paramount for reducing medial shin splints.

The Stick

Effective way for massaging the calf complex to reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility.

TheraBand Light Resistance Band Kit

Excellent tool for facilitating a strengthening program.

Exercises

**Please consult your physican before engaging in an exercise program.**

With all strengthening exercises, start with 3 sets of 10 repetitions. If you experience any sort of pain reduce your reps to 3 sets of 5. For all stretches, repeat 3 times holding each stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Using RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can be beneficial in the treatment of injuries as well.

Gastrocnemius (calf) Standing Stretch
 Soleus Standing Stretch
  1. Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object.
  2. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of involved leg.
  3. Keep the back leg (involved leg) straight and heel on the ground throughout the exercise.
  4. Lean body forward bending at ankles and hold.
  5. Return to starting position, relax, and repeat
  1. Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object.
  2. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of involved leg.
  3. Keep heel on the ground throughout the exercise.
  4. Bend knees, squat down, and hold.
  5. Return to starting position, relax and repeat.
Heel Raises Exercise
 Foot Down and In Elastic Exercise
  1. Stand next to a wall or a chair with both feet on the ground pointing straight ahead.
  2. Push front of foot down lifting heels and body weight onto balls of feet
  3. Slowly return to starting position and repeat.
  1. Place knot of elastic (Theraband) in door jamb about one foot up from the floor.
  2. Sit on floor with leg out straight and attachment of elastic outside and above the foot.
  3. Place elastic around inside of foot just below the toes.
  4. Move down and away and out away from attachment of the elastic to pick up slack.
  5. Push the foot down and in away from attachment of the elastic and hold.
  6. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.

Images reproduced courtesy of T.E.D.© (Therapeutic Exercise Database) V. 2.0


October 2023 test data is now live!